Subject
Americans -- Philippines -- Fiction Books
Best books
Sargent Kayme
Anting-Anting Stories, and Other Strange Tales of the Filipinos
"Anting-Anting Stories, and Other Strange Tales of the Filipinos" by Sargent Kayme is a collection of tales written in the early 20th century. This work presents a vivid depiction of Filipino life, culture, and folklore, encapsulated within various narratives that explore themes of magic, ritual, and human experience. Through a series of stories, it is likely that readers will encounter various characters, including native Filipinos, American military personnel, and supernatural elements, all woven into the rich tapestry of the Philippines' unique characteristics and traditions. The opening of the collection introduces the idea of "anting-anting," a powerful charm believed to protect its holder, serving as a central theme in the stories to come. It begins with a scene set during a battle between American forces and Tagalog natives, depicting the aftermath, where a mysterious native searches among the dead for the anting-anting of a chief. This sets off a sequence of events that intertwine fate, superstition, and personal motives, paving the way for intrigue and exploration of deeper themes relating to cultural beliefs and the supernatural dynamics of the time. The stage is set for a journey through strange tales that promise to blend history with mythology, offering readers an insight into a world filled with wonder and enigma.
James Hopper
Caybigan
"Caybigan" by James Hopper is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds primarily in the Philippines, where the complexities of colonial education, morality, and the struggles of a group of expatriate teachers are explored through their interactions and experiences in a foreign land. The narrative centers on characters like Miller, a flawed and morally ambiguous figure, and his encounter with dire circumstances that challenge his character and the judgments of those around him. The opening of the novel introduces a group of teachers gathered in Ilo-Ilo during the Christmas holidays amid the unsettling realities following a cholera outbreak. As they reflect on the death of a colleague named Miller, their conversation reveals their judgments about him and their own vulnerabilities. Carter, one of the teachers, passionately defends Miller, highlighting their shared experiences, revealing the inner turmoil contrasted with the outward appearance of strength and moral superiority. The narrative discusses themes of judgment, loneliness, and the moral complexities of survival, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of Miller's struggles and the harsh realities these expatriates confront in a challenging environment.
Recently surfaced classics